After MUCH research, comparisions and number crunching I made my decision and brought home my new mower...

The Gravely Pro Turn XDZ 252 with Kawasaki 23.5 hp engine. This thing is a BEAST! The construction, detail and finish are excellent. The controls on the ZT5400 hydros was nice and smooth - not at all "jerky". Suspension seat is oh so nice. One thing that impressed me were stories of how Gravely quality checks each machine prior to delivery with little white grease pen "X"s on inspection points. It was neat to look the machine over and see these inspection marks on all vital check points.

What was a MAJOR reason for selecting Gravely?

Top notch customer service! Namely Mary Lyn Wininger who is Gravely/Ariens Social Media Specialist. After my first posts inquiring about Gravely, Scags, Grasshoppers, Toros, etc - Mary Lyn reached out and offered any assistance I might need in obtaining further information about Gravely's. No other manufacturer apparantly noticed or cared. Not only was Mary Lyn on the ball with Personal Messages via Lawnsite but she corresponded via email and phone calls.

After I made my decision to purchase the 252 Mary Lyn immediately coordinated the discussions between my dealer and Tom Allen, the regional Gravely representative. Both Mary Lyn and Tom worked to ensure I would receive a model with the new XFactor II Deck and new Red Commercial Spindles. This correspondence, inventory confirmation and ordering occured within 1 business day. Mary Lyn kept me informed via phone calls and emails.

What a GREAT experience dealing directly with a manufacturer. Every story I heard of outstanding and industry leading customer service is absolutely true.

Likewise I had a great experience with the Gravely dealer - just great.

Now if it would stop raining and my pasture will dry out. I'm chomping at the bit to MOW but am afraid of soft soil.

Thanks again to all who offered advice, insight and opinions of various models. I am much appreciative for the personal time you took to assist me.

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